By Papri Das

From going full throttle at New York?s Wall Street as an investment banker to establishing an empire of e-ticketing business in India ? Kyazoonga co-founder and CEO Neetu Bhatia knows that there?s no gain without a dollop of risk. She was well aware that her journey from under the safety of being an investment banker to an entrepreneur in India could be a hit or a miss. 

But stronger was the thrill of taking on the challenge of bringing access to a large swathe of the world?s population to their favourite sports and entertainment events, she says. Looking back, she feels her mission has been established. Be it ticketing for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2011, getting in the record books when India won the Cup at home, ticketing the Sachin Tendulkar 200th Test and coming up as finalists in the bid for the Rio 2016 Olympics ticketing bid ? Bhatia?s stint in India has been a series of fantastic wins for her.

Don?t ask her what it feels to be so accomplished as a woman in business, for she dismisses gender as irrelevant in the field. Her struggle hasn?t been greater or less than any man, nor her achievements. 

In a heart-to-heart chat with Exec Lifestyle's Papri Das, Bhatia reveals what it takes to cut above the noise in this fierce competition, her vision for Kyazoonga and why successful women preach feminism of true equality.

Excerpts:

What have been the benchmarks in the eCommerce and e-ticketing landscape in India and abroad?

I can only speak for Kyazoonga in this matter as we ticket events in India and abroad. Our making it to the very shortlist and being a finalist at the Rio Olympics ticketing program is testament to the fact that we are leading the pack in terms of technical, system and operational capability and have been validated at the highest levels by a global body that runs the most complex ticketing exercise on the planet.

When it comes to sport events or merchandising sales, how does India fare on the eCommerce platform?

The global sports and entertainment ticketing scenario is very vibrant. The number of events that need ticketing around the world continues to increase exponentially and the complexity of delivering an easy and simple solution to clients and consumers alike also continues to increase with it. The size of the global sports and entertainment ticketing market is north of $50 billion and rising. It is an exciting time for the industry with massive advances in web and mobile technologies layered with a connected and networked customer base always on social media. The ability to create a complete event experience for a sports/entertainment ticket customer has never been greater.

India has seen significant growth in eCommerce over the last few years. However, the sports and merchandising sector has huge untapped potential that the sector will need to focus on if we wish to reach global market standards.

Do you think the e-ticketing has greatly increased the revenue that sports earned through their events and matches? 

Indeed, e-ticketing is one of the pillars of major revenue generation for events. In fact, the success of several revenue models of various leagues around the world rests on their ability to maximise ticket sales and attendance.

One example that comes to mind is the IPL games in Raipur a couple of years ago - we were ticketing that and were taking it to all of Chhattisgarh, via online and retail, much in advance, and within four-five days of going on sale, the entire inventory was sold out.

We ended up getting record revenue of over Rs 9 crore per game, for a single domestic league match and that broke most ticketing records of the country, perhaps even around the world. That was 65 per cent online, 35 per cent retail and there was no box office. 

Sports will continue to drive the major share of online ticketing in India simply because cricket is a major driver. Demand often exceeds supply and hence people flock to online to ensure they?ve booked their spot in their favourite match. Average ticket prices are higher as well.

Kyazoonga isn?t just limited to ticketing for sports events and merchandise sale. Tell us about the other arenas that Kyazoonga has ventured into.

We created the movie and entertainment ticketing market in India. We chose to de-emphasize movie ticketing given the economics of that business. Our focus continues to be on live events and sports. We?ve ticketed some of the largest entertainment events in the country such as the multi-city concert tours of Bryan Adams, Guns N'Roses, Akon and the likes. We have ticketed the Jaipur Literature Festival for the last five years.

We also have a product called iTicket ? a DIY platform that allows event organisers the ability and freedom to create, ticket and market their events through our platform.

In the fierce competition, who do you manage to cut above the noise?

Kyazoonga is the only company east of the river Thames that owns its entire IP in ticketing and has developed the product and platform from the ground up and completely in-house. We do not license ticketing software unlike other players. Given that, we are able to scale and customise to serve the needs of the smallest neighbourhood event to one with the site and complexity of the Olympics - unarguably the most complex ticketing exercise in the world. It is generally hard for most ticketing companies that do not own their IP, to compete at the highest levels. 

Having a transactional website is only one small part of a complex ticketing exercise. Most transactional websites are mere storefronts with a shingle and a payment gateway attached to it. Sending bikers to deliver and collect physical tickets on a daily basis and then reconcile offline sales is a very inefficient way of ticketing events and creates for a lot of revenue leakage.

What online ticketing trends have you noticed in the past one year, especially in India? What kind of consumer behaviour does that reflect?

Online ticketing is still only about 15-20 per cent of the overall pie, which means that we are only scratching the surface. A recent Bain report mentioned that every month India is adding five-six million Internet users and about 650 million users are estimated to be online by 2020 ? of which 250 million will shop online ? spending over $50 billion. The report also suggests that mobile phones will dominate 70 per cent of the total number of Internet users. We believe that these are extremely positive trends and that online ticketing will become the norm in five years.

We are well positioned to capitalise on this trend both domestically as well internationally over the next few years.

Consumers are now leaning toward more personalised services and brand loyalties are now more based on user experience as opposed to more traditional forms of customer experience. 

Please share a bit about your expansion plans with your new office in Silicon Valley. What new can we expect from Kyazoonga and what is the way forward for the company as an e-ticketing platform?

We have serviced a third of the world?s population on this side of the globe, and our plans for expansion have been validated by some of the largest scale events that we have ticketed. We know we have the technology and service to be a serious contender in the market.

Given our focus on innovation and continuously building and enhancing our IP, it is only natural that we chose to work in Silicon Valley, the nerve-centre of innovation as we expand globally. 

We have recruited sales personnel, and have already started ticketing a few events in California, Washington DC, and elsewhere. 

The potential of the US market is tremendous; we are looking at a $25 - 30 billion industry.

Do you think that women in business have to be more aggressive to make a mark than men? What advantages do you think women have over men as businesswomen or entrepreneurs?

I fundamentally believe that the moment you differentiate yourself as a woman or feel the need to do so or get treated like one, you?ve lost the race.

My philosophy regarding this is that I have to be better than the next guy to move forward. I have never considered myself different from the next person. The moment you start to do that, it feels like a crutch. If my product, service, intellect and business acumen is as good as or better than the guy/gal next to me, I am a winner. Gender is irrelevant. I doubt many customers buy a product or service because they?re made by a man or a woman. They buy it because the product is better than the previous or next one.

Women have to be only equally aggressive as men to make a mark. If you are more aggressive, you?re trying too hard. They may have to deal with certain biases, sometimes deep-rooted, but nothing that a top quality product and service and smart business acumen cannot overcome. We see it in other spheres so this business is not much different.

Sula sold Sauvignon Blanc, its first bottle in 2000 and since then, it has placed India on the global wine map. Celebrating 15 years of operations, Sula recently released its limited edition festive season bottle at Asilo, Mumbai.

Brut Tropicale, a limited edition Blanc de Noirs, is a methode champenoise sparkler made from premium black grapes including Pinot Noir. This beautiful bottle is covered in paisley symbolising life and eternity, and has been interpreted and adopted as a quintessential part of the various cultures of India, spanning Kashmir to Kanyakumari. Today, the motif prevails in special occasions, ranging from henna patterns, ethnic fabrics, jewelry and such, emphasizing that most celebrations begin and end with paisley.

To mark the occasion, Sula Vineyards founder and CEO Rajeev Samant said, We wanted to do something exceptional to celebrate Sula 15 fabulous years. The result of two years of hard work is this beautiful Blanc de Noirs, a special wine. The limited edition Brut Tropicale is classy yet fun perfect for celebrations and gifting this festive season.

In the last 15 years, Sula Vineyards has also been a pioneer in India wine tourism opening the country first winery Tasting Room in 2005 and first vineyard resort, Beyond by Sula, in 2007. With 200,000 visitors in 2014, Sula is a poplar winery. Sula award-winning wines are available nationwide at the finest hotels and restaurants, and are also exported worldwide. The company is also a wine and spirits importer, with a portfolio of brands like Remy Cointreau, Cono Sur, Hardys, Ruffino and Asahi.

Firmly committed to remaining at the forefront of Indian wines, Sula continues to experiment with new varietals, engage in sustainable agriculture and support the local rural economy. The launch of the bottles is a commemoration of Sula success and its progress in global wine market.

Designer Amy Billimoria celebrates her 40th birthday over a charity fundraiser. The designer, in collaboration with Nargis Dutt Memorial Charitable Trust (NDMCT) hosted a fund-raiser at her store in Juhu, Mumbai, where some of the illustrious names from the film industry walked to support the cause.

Power women from the movie industry took to the ramp with little girls in much style and aplomb ? Dia Mirza, Mini Mathur, Maria Goretti, Madhoo, Rhea Pillai, Queenie Singh, Urvashi Sharma, Akanksha Agarwal, Reshma Merchant and actor Zayed Khan came together to support this great cause.

On this occasion Amy Billimoria says, ?To me the idea of celebration is doing something that triggers real happiness within, and what better way to mark a milestone in your life, than seeing little children light up their faces with a smile. To me my 40th birthday will reinstate my endeavour to always strive to make a difference. With this charity event, my dearest friend Jyoti Mukherjee and I will be empowering women and children in a village in Palghar and we are eagerly looking forward to a great show?.

Focusing on both tradition and change, Amy Billimoria has interpreted ornate hand embroidery on varied silhouettes from indo-western drapes, bridal lehengas and her ever green saris for the show. The colour palette for this collection ranges from ferns, peaches and champagne gold to different shades of blue.

For the fund-raiser, Amy Billimoria?s dear friend, designer Jyoti Mukherjee has designed outfits for the little girls who walked side by side with the influencers. The collection is a modern twist to vintage styles and silhouettes, and complements the outfits of the ladies who the little girls walked with.

Jyoti Mukherji says, ?I am thrilled to be a part of this great cause, where Amy and myself will get to do out bit to empower women and children of Palghar.?

Priya Dutt, Trustee NDMCT in her support says, ?On behalf of our NGO, Nargis Dutt Memorial Charitable Trust, I hereby would like to express my gratitude for your initiative, The Walk of Pride to support our effort with this fundraiser. The proceeds from this initiative will go towards women and child empowerment of Sonave Village, Palghar, Maharashtra.?

Actor Dia Mirza comments, ?I am proud of Amy Billimoria and Jyoti Mukherjee for putting together this wonderful show this festive season. I am happy and very pleased that people from civil society are taking such decision and contributing towards the society?.

 In this episode of Talking Point, your host Megha Parmar chats with the executive producers of the 12-season-old reality show MTV Roadies and the managing partners of their own venture, Monozygotic - a platform agnostic content and communications hub. Known for their temper and boldness, they talk about their company, social concerns and if India needs another roasting session. 

By Jigar Ganatra

This year?s much awaited film Shaandaar has caught many eyeballs already, especially due to the amazing outfits worn by the lead star cast ? Shahid Kapoor and Alia Bhatt. 

Indiantelevision.com?s Exec Life got in touch with Archana Walavalkar, Co-founder and Creative Director at StyleCracker and Shahid and Alia's stylist from the film, to get a lowdown on the wardrobe trends from the film.

Read on:

Shahid Kapoor

Look 1:

                                                                                      
You see Shahid in cool, urban staples throughout the film. Expect basic tees, neutral coloured shirts and blazers and worn-in denims. His first exudes an understated sexy vibe as he enters in a rugged leather jacket, with wind-swept hair, on a bike. 

Invest in a pre-washed linen shirt to get Shahid?s style. Breathable, easy to work with and super suave ? it?s a wardrobe investment that will take you a long way. 

Look 2: 

                                                                                         
In the film, Shahid is a complete charmer when it comes to work. Classic blazers, tartan ties, well fitted trousers, and boarding school-like sweatshirts ? we went for separates that are standout pieces by themselves but also complemented each other perfectly when put together. 

You may not need a jacket for daily use but a well-tailored blazer is a must-have. To start off, go for navy. Throw it over cuffed chinos for a day brunch or pair it with tweed/patterned trousers for an evening out.

Look 3: 

                                                                                         
For his formal look in the song ?Nazdikiyan,? we went for a vanilla tuxedo by Kunal Rawal. It is colour play that makes the look a winner - the black satin lapel complements off-white well. Keeping the front clean, we went for a concealed placket shirt (instead of a pleated one).

Don?t shy away from experimenting with pantones. If washed colours are not your thing, go for deeper tones like aubergine and charcoal when choosing your tuxedo.

Alia Bhatt

Look 1:

Alia plays a free spirit in the film and so throughout you see her in laid-back separates. In this shot, she is wearing a sheer cape handcrafted by Nachiket Barve. Embroidered dragonflies have been stitched onto net fabric. 

It is a very wearable look. Go for a simple tank top over cut-off denims for a casual outing. Swap the boots for practical sneakers and finish the outfit with lightweight summer-friendly layering. 

Look 2: 

                                                                                        
In the ?Gulabo? song, her look is inspired by menswear. Seen in a Glenchecks suit and a vintage waistcoat, this is one of the most tailored outfits Alia wears in the film. Though the garment is custom-made, we sourced the accessories from various boutiques in East London. An inside story: We went through over 100 moustaches for her in this sequence!

Borrow from the boys to add an element of edge to your formal wardrobe. It could be structured co-ords in masculine prints (houndstooth, windowpane checks et al), brogues, or even accessories like a standout bow tie. 

Look 3:

                                                                                          
In the song ?Nazdikiyan,? we went for a Shehla Khan dress. The cloud print is essential in the song and so the fabric had to be dyed, printed and tailored to suit very specific requirements. Staying true to Alia?s quirky character, we finished the look with risqu? lace-up heels (as opposed to strappy stilettos).

Less is more always. For Alia?s effortless elegance, pick a unique silhouette and let it be the focal point of your outfit. Finish the look with basic make-up and a simple hair-do. Beach waves or a messy braid are your go-to styles. Keep the jewellery minimal and go for shimmer shoes instead. Hardware detailing, crystals, studded brooches ? the bolder the embellishments, the better! 

By Jigar Ganatra

Harley Rock Riders, an annual music property of Harley-Davidson India celebrates and supports independent music in the country and welcomes enthusiasts seeking a taste of the Harley-Davidson lifestyle. Launched in 2010, this festival brings rock music and motorcycle lovers together, both bound by their burning desire for self-expression. The festival also features a contest for up-and-coming bands from around the country and gives them an opportunity to showcase their talent.

After tasting success from the previous five seasons, Harley Rock Riders, the iconic rock music festival is back with an interesting line-up of some of the best artists from Indian rock, headlined by the legendary American Thrash metal band - Megadeth and the Jamaican Reggae band ? The Wailers.

Indiantelevision.com?s Exec Life lists five reasons why every Indie fan needs to attend this festival:

? The headliner is worth it

Fans at the festival this year will get to enjoy and groove to the best of Rock & Reggae with American and Jamaican music legends ? Megadeth, a pioneer in the thrash metal scene in the world and The Wailers, who tour extensively and have performed at more than 200 gigs. This will be the first time that these bands will hit the music stage in Mumbai.

? Get set to watch the creativity of  the ?Champions of Custom?

This year five of the top independent bike builders of the country come together with brilliant sculptures in motion. The ?Champions of Custom? will showcase their creativity and talent with their customised Harley-Davidson motorcycles and will be judged by renowned names associated with Harley-Davidson motorcycles. This will also be your chance to learn about the true origins of rock in India. 

? Pump your heart with the ?Harley? roar

The roar of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle is enough to get any motorcycle lover?s heart pumping. This year, bikers will be able to enjoy the first-hand experience of sitting atop a roaring Harley-Davidson motorcycle through the Harley-Davidson jumpstart at the venue. Bikers can also witness a spectacle of hundreds of Harley-Davidson motorcycle owners riding in to the exclusive Harley parking zone near the Main Stage. 

? Watch rock come alive on 3 stages!

The culture of Harley-Davidson has been synonymous with rock music since its inception. This year Harley-Davidson is taking it up a notch with three live stages, more than 20 Indian bands and exceptional homegrown talent participating in the ?Find your Freedom? contest. Some of the bands taking up the stage include Scribe, Bhayanak Maut, Indus Creed, Superfuzz, Demonic Resurrection and The Lightyears Explode.

? Explore the Harley lifestyle with Harley-Davidson merchandise

It?s not just about riding the Harley. It?s about the attitude too. Festival goers at the Harley Rock Riders Season VI will get a chance to be a part of the multi-faced Harley lifestyle and shop the exclusive Harley-Davidson merchandise. Fans can also view and purchase the recently launched Black Label Fall 2015 Collection at the venue. Further, Harley lovers can also sign-up for a unique opportunity to familiarise with one of the most iconic brands in the world, at the Harley-Davidson Boot camp.